How to Apply

Doctor of Education in Distance Education
Program Application

Application deadline -- January 31

All documents and forms must be completed and received by the Centre for Distance Education on or before January 31 for consideration of a program start as indicated on the Doctor of Education in Distance Education (EdD) Academic Schedule.

Applications will be reviewed by an Admissions Committee. Selection will be based on the applicant’s previous academic record, research track record, ability to participate in scholarly studies and conduct research independently at a distance. A telephone interview may be required to complete the selection process; if required, the Admissions Committee will contact the applicant to make arrangements.

Applicants will be notified of the committee's decision typically after March 1. Successful applicants will be required to pay the first installment of the yearly program fee within two weeks of offer of admission (non-refundable).

All documents should be sent directly to the Program Administrator (edd@athabascau.ca). Electronic documents are preferred, except in the case of letters of reference and transcripts. Documents that cannot be emailed should be sent by mail to the following address:

For applicants who have previously received an Athabasca University student ID number, please note: you will need to "Login" before completing the form, using your student ID number.

2. Curriculum Vitae

Your curriculum vitae should include:

contact information

educational background

employment/professional background

publications, conference presentations, and other scholarly works

awards, scholarships, and other academic honours received

3. Statement of Intent (750-1250 words)

Discuss why you wish to pursue doctoral studies in the EdD (Distance Education) program at Athabasca University. Include your relevant previous experience, your current work, and future career plans. Describe how your experience and education are relevant to the purposes of this program.

4. Research Background and Interests (750-1250 words)

Describe your research background, including relevant education (e.g., courses, workshops) and experience. Discuss your research interests and areas that you wish to investigate in your doctoral program.

In the above, include any research reflected in the publications listed in your CV. For any publications where you were not the primary author, describe your role and contributions to the study. If you have completed a thesis-based master's degree, include the abstract of your thesis as an appendix. If your thesis is available online, include the URL.

5. Letters of Reference (3)

Provide three references from referees who are familiar with your work, and who can comment on your ability to do research and succeed in advanced studies. Ask them to complete the Letter of Reference form (MS Word), and to place the form in an envelope and sign over the seal. Referees should mail the completed forms directly to the Program Administrator (EdD) at the address above. (Alternatively, you may collect and send the letters personally, sealed and signed as above.)

Photocopied signatures and forms or letters sent by e-mail are not acceptable for this purpose. Completed letters must be received no later than January 31.

6. Official transcripts from the most recently attended post-secondary institution(s)

Applicants must provide evidence of having completed a master's degree.

Transcripts must be sent directly from the issuing institution. Transcripts should be in the original language. If you submit transcripts in a language other than English, or from an institution outside of Canada, you must:

Submit a copy translated into English by a certified translator;

and

Have your transcripts assessed. This assessment will provide a certificate which indicates the level of education achieved outside of North America and how the education compares to a Canadian credential. Such documentation can be obtained from an assessment agency that is a member of:

The applicant is responsible for ensuring that all documents and forms are completed and submitted on or before January 31. Please contact us (edd@athabascau.ca) to ensure that the centre has received your documents.

Successful applicants will typically be notified after March 1. Notifications are sent by email followed by an official letter through post.